In celebration of the October 2025 Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination (CPALE) results, Notre Dame University – College of Business and Accountancy held a Thanksgiving Ceremony to honor its 20 newly licensed Certified Public Accountants on January 24, 2026, at the Junior High School Theater. The ceremony carried the theme, “Success through Perseverance: Celebrating New Beginnings towards Transformative Leadership.”

The program commenced with a symbolic processional march of the honorees, who wore Filipiniana and Barong attire, accompanied by their parents and guardians. Dr. Catlyn O. Pongot, MPA, College Dean, delivered the welcome address, marking the formal opening of the ceremony. Fr. Francis Efren C. Zabala, OMI, DMin, University President, followed with an inspirational message that encouraged the honorees to embody the values of transformative leadership.

Keynote speaker Min. Atty. Ubaid C. Pacasem, CPA, delivered a motivational address highlighting perseverance and ethical leadership in the accounting profession.

The ceremony also featured the presentation of plaques of recognition to the new CPAs, followed by their Oath of Membership led by Ms. Naila Z. Dimaro, CPA, President of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Cotabato City Chapter.

A heartfelt tribute song, “I Lived” by One Republic, honored the journey and sacrifices of the newly licensed professionals.

Prof. Christverly R. Caceres, CPA, MBA, concluded the program with her closing remarks, congratulating the honorees on their significant achievements.